How Early Is Too Early To Start Back-To-School Shopping In NY?

It happens every year. The kids get out of school and before you even begin to enjoy summer, it's time to start thinking about going back. When is too early?

Summer goes by way too quickly

If there's one thing that is for sure, it's that summer goes by way too quickly. The kids just got out of school in New York. We just had graduation ceremonies and proms. Now it's time to enjoy summer, right?

Yet, mark my words, you're going to start seeing back-to-school displays in stores soon.

Is it too early to start back-to-school shopping now?

For some people it is, and no one can blame them. Summer vacation is just getting started. You haven't even taken your family trip or had your first s'more and you're supposed to be thinking about what to get to be ready for the next school year??

The answer is yes, some schools have already begun sending out lists of things that your child will need for next year.

Then there are the type of people who are always on the lookout for a great deal. They like to be prepared early and there cannot be a "too early" to be ready.

Some retailers begin having sales as early as the 4th of July and will have huge incentives just to kickstart their sales. So waiting isn't always better. If you can get started on it, the rush at the end of summer won't affect you.

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Will you get better deals if you wait?

Most retailers will have sales throughout the summer. So it's not always better to wait until the week or two before the kids head back. Many will encourage you to shop often throughout the summer if you can. Instead of making one huge trip at the end of the summer, just grab things as you see them go on sale to save yourself the stress and trouble. This way, you won't have to worry if they go out of stock either.

The things you need could be at a better price as stores are trying to clear out inventory to get ready for Halloween and dare I say, Christmas, but you'll also take the chance that they will not have what you need in stock.

So...when should you start back-to-school shopping?

The short answer is that you don't need to start right now, but don't wait until the last minute. If you can get going towards the end of July (or mid to late-summer) you're going to have your best chance of finding what you need on full shelves at the best prices.